Stephen M. Toland, a longtime resident of Melrose, died on December 29, 2025, at the age of 61 following a brief but courageous battle with cancer. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Paul F. and Sheila M. (Turner) Toland of Melrose. 

Stephen graduated from Saint Mary’s School in Melrose and then from Malden Catholic High School. He worked for many years at the old Delaney’s Store in Melrose and then for several large retail stores in the area. Stephen also proudly served as an Auxiliary Police Officer for several years in Wayland and in Melrose. Stephen enjoyed candlepin bowling, looking after and feeding the birds at his home, and he was a loyal fan of the New England Patriots. 

Stephen is survived by his four siblings: Brenda (Toland) Denton and her husband Mike of Billerica; Lynn (Toland) Kelly of Melrose; Barry and his partner Debbie Ruehrwein of North Reading; and Paul and his wife Beth of Cary, NC. Stephen is also fondly remembered by six nephews and a niece, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

Arrangements will be private. Donations in Stephen’s memory may be made to “12 Step Education Program,” 317 Boston Road, North Billerica, MA 01862 Attn: Laura O’Donnell.